Healthcare Assistant Summary
Supporting and enabling Service Users to maintain skills and personal interests whilst delivering person-centred care unique to the Service User.
To maintain skills at a current level, undertake such training and development as required occasionally to maintain and progress knowledge.
Visiting clients in their own homes to provide care and support.
HEALTHCARE ASSISTANT MAIN DUTIES
Ensure Service Users are at the heart of care delivery and their wishes and preferences enhance their well-being;
To support Service Users with all aspects of their day-to-day living, enabling them to enjoy the best possible quality of life;
Ensure your duties are completed with care and diligence, operating under strict integrity at all times;
Ensure Care Plans and other information about how to support Service Users are followed;
Be responsible for informing the Care Coordinator and Manager of any changes in the needs of Service Users;
Uphold the values and goals of the business in all you do, ensuring maximum compliance with internal and statutory policies relating to your role;
Develop effective working relationships with other employees;
Work in cooperation with members of the multidisciplinary teams to maximize opportunities for all people;
Administration of medication and diabetes care (Blood glucose monitoring and Insulin administration);
Provide Service Users with support/assistance as they accomplish daily tasks including catheter care, stoma care, bathing, eating, dressing, grooming and using the bathroom, as dictated in their care plan;
Behavior management, Manual handling, Ability to use hoist,
Communicate any problems, concerns or changes to Service Users’ family members as needed;
HEALTHCARE ASSISTANT PERSONAL SKILL
Most of the employees would work alone with the Service User in their home;
Compassion, good communication skills, and a calm and caring manner are essential for this important role;
Seek and embrace opportunities for personal and professional growth/learning, with a commitment to achieving the relevant qualifications required in the role;
Be a role model for other Healthcare Assistants and be an ambassador for the Service;
Be professional, polite and reasonable at all times;
Attend all statutory training and any other training as directed by management;
Compliance and understanding of all policies and procedures relevant to your role.
Competency Needed – Training Available, if Required.
*DESIRABLE
**ESSENTIAL
Administration of medication**
Qualifications and educational skills
RQF in Social Care*
Good written skills**
Good verbal skills **
Previous experience of working in domiciliary care*
Previous experience of working in a similar role**
Experience working with Service Users, in particular, those that may have complex needs.**
Up-to-date mandatory training (Training can be provided) *
DBS update service*
Full UK driving license*
Be a driver and have a car**
Sponsorship available if required
Employee mentoring programme
Flexitime
Referral programme
Application question(s):
Are you able to provide a valid DBS on update service?
Do you have a valid Full UK driving license?
Do you have valid Right to Work in the United Kingdom?
Healthcare Assistant FAQs
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HCAs assist with patient care, including personal tasks like washing and dressing, helping with mobility, and feeding. They monitor vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, temperature), support medical procedures under supervision, and offer emotional encouragement. Work settings include hospitals, care homes, and home visits.
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No formal qualifications are required, though GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and math are often preferred. Prior care experience (paid or voluntary) is a plus. Some employers mandate a Care Certificate, NVQ Level 2/3, or an apprenticeship.
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Begin with voluntary roles or healthcare apprenticeships. Many employers provide initial training, including the Care Certificate, and value enthusiasm, basic literacy, and a caring nature over prior experience.
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Compassion, patience, strong communication, teamwork, and physical fitness are key. Training often covers technical skills like taking vitals or infection control, but a supportive demeanor is critical.
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Typically 37.5 hours per week, with shifts covering nights, early mornings, evenings, and weekends. Part-time and zero-hour contracts are available, especially in community or pediatric care.
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NHS Band 2 roles start at around £22,000–£24,000 per year (£11–£12 per hour). Private sector pay ranges from £9.50 to £14.79 per hour, varying by experience, location, and employer.
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New HCAs usually get a week of induction training and work toward a Care Certificate within three months. Further options include Level 3 apprenticeships or specialized training in areas like dementia care.
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Yes, HCAs can progress to Senior HCA, Assistant Practitioner, or Nursing Associate roles. With additional qualifications, paths to registered nurse or allied health roles open up.
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Settings include NHS hospitals, private care facilities, hospices, and patients’ homes. Specializations may include mental health, maternity, or elderly care.
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Stay calm, ensure patient safety, and escalate issues (e.g., aggression or safeguarding concerns) to supervisors. Training often includes de-escalation and stress management techniques.
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The role can be demanding emotionally and physically, especially in end-of-life or high-stress settings. Employers prioritize NHS values (e.g., respect, compassion) and require a DBS check. Check NHS Jobs, Indeed UK, or local council websites for current vacancies.
To apply for this job please visit findajob.dwp.gov.uk.